Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins and proteins are necessary for the growth, repair as well as maintenance of all our vital organs. Amino acids that the body derives from our daily diet are called as ‘essential amino acids’ while ‘non essential amino acids’ refer to those which the body can produce from other sources. Non essential amino acids can either be obtained from essential amino acids or even normal breakdown of proteins. There are 20 amino acids and each one of them has a unique role to play, irrespective of whether it is essential or non essential. Thus, vegetarians are usually recommended to take amino acid supplements, since plants lack one or more essential amino acids.

L-Arginine is an amino acid that performs several functions in the human body. L-Arginine not only helps in getting rid of the ammonia but also aids the formation of nitric oxide, a compound responsible for relaxation of blood vessels. This amino acid is also involved in the formation of protein in human body. Besides stimulating the release of prolactin and growth hormones, L-Arginine can help in the treatment of heart diseases as it increases blood flow and improves the function of the blood vessels. It is effective for treating erectile dysfunction and heals wounds effectively. L-Arginine is produced in the liver as well as the kidney. Food items which include this acid are animal proteins like meat, fish, poultry and plants. L-Arginine supplements become essential when the supply of arginine depletes because of infections and severe burns.

L-Glutamine- Found in plasma and muscles of the human body, L-Glutamine is an essential amino acid. In the skeletal muscle cells, more than 60% of free floating amino acid is made of L-Glutamine. It acts as the primary donor of nitrogen and moves in the body wherever required. This amino acid has been considered useful in reducing physical stress. During surgery or heavy exercise regime the human body needs it for maintaining the level of glutamine in muscles and blood. It is also essential for maintenance of immune system and prevention of intestinal stress. Glutamine supplements can help in restoring L-Glutamine levels during stress. L-Glutamine supplements are relatively less expensive and help in minimizing the breakdown of muscles. It also improves the metabolism of protein in the human body and ensures a positive balance of nitrogen.

L-Isoleucine is one of the amino acids besides the other two, L-Valine and L-Leucine. These are found in all the forms of life as proteins. They are as well obtainable in the diet through vegetable and animal sources. L-Isoleucine is good to regulated blood sugar as well the energy levels. It is also important in the synthesis of hemoglobulin and thereby increases endurance. L-Isolecuine gets metabolized in the tissues of the muscles and the opulent L-Isolecuine sources are almonds, cashews and soy protein. Hence, this is prominent among athletes and is taken in combination with the other two amino acids, L-Leucine and L-Valine. L-Isoleucine is required for the formation of hemoglobin and also regulates as well as stabilizes the energy levels. The other food sources of L-Isoleucine are eggs, meat, fish, rye, chickpeas, chicken, liver and lentils. People suffering from physical and mental disorders are usually deficient in L-Isoleucine. These amino acids are required for the synthesis of enzymes, structural protein and for hormones.

L-Leucine with the food additive E number code E641 is classified as a flavor enhancer. Leucine is actually an essential alpha-amino acid and a vital part of so called “buffer” proteins, such as ferritin and astacin. You can find leucine in foods such as whole wheat bread products, nuts and brown rice. As a supplement, researchers have found that leucine slows the degradation of muscles and muscle tissues through an inflated synthesis of muscle proteins. In the human body, leucine can be found in the liver, but most prominently in the muscle and adipose tissues, where it is utilized in production of sterols. In body building circles L-Leucine as a dietary supplement is very popular for all these properties, but also for the preservation of muscle glycogen, nitrogen balance maintenance and more.

L-Valine is an amino acid with stimulant activities. It not only helps in tissue repair but also promotes muscle growth. It is one of the three branched amino acids that are formulated for providing support to the human body for normal functioning. Derived from animal and vegetable protein, L-Valine is not only involved in the synthesis of protein and metabolism of glucose but it also regulates the immune system. L-Valine is also effective in maintaining the exercise recovery time and the balance of nitrogen in the body. Since the human body doesn’t produce this amino acid naturally, you need to acquire it through dietary supplements and food items. When taking L-Valine supplements, you must follow strict directions from the physician. Even though it doesn’t have any side effects, it helps to consult the physician before its usage.

Stevia, the genus Stevia Rebaudiana, is specie of shrubs indigenous to Paraguay. Not only is it a natural and sweet alternative to artificial sweetening agents like aspartame but also has almost no calories. Moreover, use of Stevia supplements has shown to boost moods, energy levels as well as mental alertness. The extract derived from the leaves of Stevia is known as Stevioside and is used in supplements in the form of green or white powder or even brown liquid. It is advisable to use the Stevia supplements in the green powder form since it contains various nutrients. Besides this, it also offers several benefits like improving the immune system. Thus, it is very valuable as a dietary supplement to bodybuilders and dieters. It is ideal for those suffering from diabetes and hyperglycemia.